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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
P . M . ' s there were only five or six present , which showed how rapidly we passed away , and what changes time made even in a young lodge . Those who were present would also pass away , but he was sure they could not forget in that lodge that they had had many distinguished Masons with them . The P . M . ' s had done their duty thoroughly and well , and their services had been appreciated . With
regard to the dissemination of Freemasonry , Bro . Hutton had referred to it . The lodge had its members in various parts of the globe . At the Cape and in Sierra Leone were two brethren residing , who were members of the Iodge . It had sent them to America , to India , and to all quarters of the world , where they were not only in connection with this lodge , but doing good service in Freemasonry . Not to go
further with these remarks , which were induced by the varying circumstances of the lodge , he would conclude by proposing " The Health of the VV . M ., " a brother who was very well known , and whose merits required no ornamentation at his hands . The W . M ., in reply , said it was to the brethren ' s kindness he was indebted for getting in the chair , and that he
had made progress in the lodge ; but especially this year was he indebted to the S . W . He would do his utmost to show his appreciation of that kindness , and it would be his endeavour to further the interests of the iodge and increase the happiness and comfort of the brethren . He would press forward to the utmost , and he was sure that the brethren would forgive any defects and imperfections they found in
him" Be to his virtues very kind , And to his faults a little blind . " If he bad their consideration and their hearty co-operation they would have a not unsuccessful year during his time of office . The W . M . next proposed " The Initiate , " of whom he , as his proposer , could speak highly , having known him the whole of his business life , and he was sure he would make
a valuable addition to the lodge . Bro . Bull replied , stating he was happy to join the Order , the ritual of which , as far as he had seen it , had impressed him very much . The W . M , next proposed "The Visitors , " to which Bros . Carr , Stead , Sneath , and Nufer ( New York ) responded . The W . M . then gave "The P . M . ' s . "
Bro . Charles Atkins , P . M ., replying , said he was extremely pleased to come up from Brixham to join the brethren of the Hervey Lodge that evening . His old friend the W . M ., whom hehad the pleasure of proposing and initiating five years ago , was kind enough to ask him to come , and he could not resist the gratification he knew he should feel at being once more among the brethren for
a few hours . It added greatly to his pleasure to think that in the short space of five years Bro . Tayler had attained the chair . He felt a great pleasure in initiating Bro . Tayler , for he knew he was a good man . Bro . Tayler had proved the correctness of all his anticipations . The brethren were all pleased to find that he ( Bro . Atkins ) was getting quite young again . He had passed through the
winter without a cough or a cold or any symptoms of being and asthmatical or a bronchial old man , as he had the fear of being when he was in London . Of course it would be useless to ask them all to go to see him in Devonshire , but he hoped they would one by one go , for he could assure them they would find it another country altogether to London , where they smoke and fog , as opportunity offered he
hoped he should come again and again to London and see how the lodge was prospering , and how well the work was done . He could recollect the time when the work was not done so well as it was now , and the old members would bear him out in that . AU the officers knew their duty , and could do it . He hoped they would continue as they were going on and add lustre to the name of the lodge , John
Hervey , the late Grand Secretary , who was one of the best Masons that ever lived . Bro . Heaton , P . M ., also replied , and said that since the advent of the W . M ., no doubt a great change had taken place in the working of the lodge , and he trusted this would continue , so that visitors would be qleased to come to the lodge , and be satisfied with the work .
Bro . Brockett-Sorrell , P . M ., said the Past Masters would do what they could to further the interests of the lodge . The Past Masters had shown their interest in the lodge that night . Bro . Atkins had acted as J . D ., Bro . Heaton as D . C , and he himself had had the pleasure of performing the installation ceremony . He commended the work of the W . M ., who was a most efficient Mason . He ( Bro .
Brockett-Sorrell ) thought the time had now come when he entitled to a little rest , as he had done the work for two years . Bro . Latreille , P . M . and Secretary , replied , to the toast of "The Treasurer and Secretary . " Bro . Dr . Hogg would do all he could for the lodge , and he ( Bro . Latreille ) would endeavour to perform his duties faithfully and
zealously . He was accused of being strict , but he was strict on account of his love of Masonry , and a desire to keep the John Hervey Lodge right . The other toasts were then given , and the brethren separated , after spending a most enjoyable evening , rendered additionally enjoyable by thc musical efforts of Bro . Wallis , and Messrs . Linley , Berry , and Tournay , under the direction of Bro . W . Henry , J . D .
ST . MARYLEBONE LODGE ( No . 1305 ) . — The installation meeting of this lodge was held at thc Langham Hotel , on Wednesday , the 14 th inst . The chair was occupied by Bro . Henry Hill , W . M ., who was supported by Bros . Middleton W . Halliday , S . W . 5 F . Smith , J . W . ; J . Chaplin , Treas . ; J . L . Baker , P . M ., Sec ; F . Spurgin , S . D . j F . J . Bonham , J . D . ; C . Curtis , D . C . ;
Arnold Birch , Org . ; R . Raymond , I . G . ; , b . G . Foxall , P . G . P ., P . M . ; F . C . Moufiet , P . M . ; J . J . Pope , P . M . ; E . White , P . M . ; and many others . Amongst the visitors were the following : Bros . G . Coop , S . W . 141 ; C Grassi , S . W . 1339 ; H , Gidding , 1624 ; W . Holland , 2030 ; H . Donelly , 749 ; j . Taylor , 1744 ; E . Wilding , J . D . 1541 ; A . Henson , 1706 ; and W . W . Lee , 1 S 97 . The lodge having been opened in due form , the minutes
of the preceding meeting were read and confirmed , after which Bros . S . Whiteley , E . A . P . Whitel y , and J . W . Avery were raised to the Degree of Master Masons . Bro . Middleton Wood Halliday , S . W ., was then presented as W . M . elect , and a Board of Installed Masters having been formed , he vvas duly installed into the chair for the ensuing year . The following officers were appointed and invested by the W . M .: Bros . F . Smith , S . W . ; F . Spurgin , J . W . ; J . Chaplin , Treas . ; J . L . Baker , P . M ., Sec . ; F . J . Bonham ,
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
S . D . ; R . Raymond , J . D . ; Cox , D . C ; Curtis , I . G . ; and Douglas , Stwd . The usual addresses were then delivered by the Installing Master , Bro . Henry Hill , in a very able and impressive manner that was much appreciated by the brethren present . Ballot having been taken for Messrs . W . T . Barnard , W . G . Cotsfordi and G . H . Turner , which resulted unanimously in their favour , they were initiated by the newly-installed W . M . in a manner that augured
well for the working of the lodge during the next year . The report of the Audit Committee was read and adopted , showing a balance to the credit of the Benevolent Fund of nearly £ 220 . A vote of thanks was unanimously passed , and ordered to be entered on the minutes , expressing the sincere thanks of the brethren to Bro . F . C . Moufiet , P . M ., for the very handsome banner presented by him to the lodge , and which was much admired .
All Masonic business having been transacted , the Iodge was closed in due form , and the brethren adjourned to banquet , at the conclusion of which the customary loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured . The first toast— "The Queen and the Craft " —was proposed by the Worshipful Master , who remarked that it was always well received , and the present occasion would be no exception . They hailed with pleasure the return of
Her Alajesty amongst her people , and all would unite in wishing her health and strength to continue among them . The next toast was " H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . G . M ., " whom , the W . M . observed , was one of the hardest worked men in England , but yet found time to attend to his Masonic duties . Nothing gave his Royal
Highness greater pleasure than to be exerting his influence or giving his time to promote the interests of Freemasonry , and since he had occupied the position of M . W . G . M . the Craft had made rapid strides , having largely increased in numbers , and therefore giving increased support to the Masonic Charities .
In proposing "The Health of the Grand Officers , the Worshipful Master said he was glad they had a Grand Officer present that evening , Bro . Foxall , P . G . P ., whose name he should couple with the toast . It was not necessary for him to dwell upon the great interest taken by the Grand Officers in the Craft , but he should content fiimself with assuring the brethren that they did all in their power to promote its welfare .
Bro . S . G . Foxall , P . G . P ., responded ; but said that , as the hour was very late , he would simply thank them sincerely for the reception given the toast , and for the honour conferred upon him by coupling his name with it . Bro . Henry Hill , I . P . M ., said it was now his pleasing duty to propose " The Health of their Worshipful Master , " and from the successful manner in which he had performed the duties of the various offices , he had no doubt that he
would preside over the lodge in a way that would meet with the approval of its members . They had all known the W . M . for some considerable time , and he was sure he would have a prosperous year of office . Bro . Middleton W . Halliday , W . M ., tendered his hearty thanks for the manner in which his health had been proposed and received , and also for the honour conferred upon him by electing him to the chair of the lodge . No effort
would be wanting on his part to carry out his duties to their satisfaction , and he asked them all to assist him during his year of office by giving him their support , and to combine with him in making his term of office a successful one . He would do his best to promote the welfare of the Iodge and the comfort of the brethren . In submitting the toast of "The Initiates , " the W . M . said that scarcely a meeting passed without some new
members being introduced , and he was pleased to say there were three initiates that evening , all of whom he trusted would become good and true Masons . Bros . W . T . Barnard , W . G . Cotsford , and . G . H . Turner responded , the first-named brother observing that it would be his earnest endeavour to become , as the W . M . had remarked , a good and true Mason . From what he had seen of Freemasonry that night , he was sure that it was an
Order to which he would be proud to belong , for , in the first p lace , it had the Bible las its foundation , and , in the next , it upheld the Queen and Constitution . With such principles as it taught , he was certain that he had not joined an Order he need be ashamed of . " The Visitors " was next proposed by the WM ., who saidthat they were always favoured with a large number of visiting brethren , as the members took great pleasure in
bringing visitors , and he , as W . M . of the lodge , gave them a hearty welcome . Bro . G . Coop , S . W . 141 , replied , and thanked the members of the lodge for the hospitable manner in which the visitors had been received . He had been an inhabitant of Marylebone for many years , but had never before had the pleasure of visiting the St . Marylebone Lodge , which was a thoroughly representative one . He was almost sorry
he had not had the good fortune to have been initiated in that lodge ; but he hoped to have the pleasure of visiting it on many future occasions . Several other brethren responded , thanking the members for the hearty reception accorded them , and testifying to the excellent working and prosperous condition of the lodge . The Worshipful Master then gave" The Past Masters , " from whom he had derived great assistance , and to whom
he tendered his best thanks for the ready help they had afforded him . There was a thoroughly representative number of Past Masters present that night , some of whom he believed were founders . Amongst these was Bro . Moufiet , P . M ., who was always ready and willing to do anything for the good of the lodge . Last , hut not least , there was their I . P . M ., Bro . Henry Hill , whom he wished to heartily compliment upon the very impressive manner in
which he had performed the ceremony of installation . He ( the W . M . ) had now a duty to perform that always devolved upon the new occupant of the chair . It was to present Bro . Henry Hill , I . P . M ., with the jewel that had been voted by the lodge ( manufacturedby Bro . George Kenning ) . It afforded him very great pleasure to make this presentation , for it was in recognition of the able manner in whicii Bro . Hill had carried out the duties , and hc hoped that brother would have health and strength to be with them
for many years to come . Bro . Henry Hill , I . P . M ., said he had to thank the brethren for the very cordial manner in which thc toast of his health had heen proposed and received . He had also to thank them for the handsome jewel presented to him . He had always carried out his duties to the best of his ability , and he was pleased to think he had performed them to the satisfaction of the members . _ He would always treasure the jewel to remind him of his year of office .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Bro . Pope , P . M ., also responded on behalf of the Pas ' Masters , and assured the W . M . and brethren that nothing gave them greater pleasure than to be present and render every assistance in their power . " The Treasurer and Secretary " was next proposed by the W . M ., who said he was sure they would all readily agree with him that there was not a more onerous duty than
that of Treasurer , and they were fortunate in possessing such a brother as Bro . Chaplin to act in that capacity . With regard to the Secretary , the lodge had never had a better Secretary than Bro . Baker , P . M ., to whom their best thanks were due for the zeal and energy with which he performed his duties .
Bros . Chaplin , Treas ., and Baker , Sec , responded , thanking the brethren for the cordiality with which the toast had been received , and assuring them that no effort would be wanting on their part to ensure the satisfactory performance of their respective duties . " The Officers " having been given and duly responded to , the Tyler ' s toast closed the proceedings .
NEW CROSS LODGE ( No . 1559 ) . —The first meeting of this lodge under the newly-elected VV . M ., Bro . G . P . Bertini , took place at the Ship Hotel , Greenwich , on the 9 th inst ., when he was supported by Bros . C . Grassi . S . W . ; F . W . Cash , J . W . ; E . H . Thiellay , P . M ., Treas . P . G . S . B . Middx . ; Ernest E . Smith , P . M ., Sec .: las . D . Graham , S . D . ; H . Wild , J . D . ; f . H . Meyer , I . G . I Wm .
cawley , r . ij . u . U . ; C 1 . Urummant , P . M ., Stwd . ; R . Mackway , acting as Org . ; J . W . Rowe , Tyler ; Rev . J . VV . Sturdee , I . P . M . ; W . Avenell , R . Barrett , H . VV . P . Makeham , J . Neville , John Falkner , H . W . Walden , G . Felix Mounter , James Rowe , J . B . C . Rouard , J . Pegram , R . Pratti , C . Guffanti , and others . Visitors : Bros . W . C . Smith , S . W . 1563 ; T . A . Harding , S 59 ; Edward F .
Green , S ; R . Mackway , 19 S 7 ; G . Reynolds , S . D . 1614 ; J . M . Kiry , Treas . 1622 ; J . Lander , W . M . 1022 ; and others . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . A ballot took place for Messrs . R . Pratti and C Guffanti , and proving unanimous , those gentlemen were informed
of the same . Bro . W . Avenell and R . J . Pegram were passed to the Degree of F . C , and Bro , W . H . Walden was raised to the Degree of M . M . The W . M . initiated Messrs . R . Pratti and C . Guffanti into the mysteries of Freemasonry . The W . M . and Bro . E . H . Meyer proposed two gentlemen for ballot at the next meeting . The W . M . having received the " Heartv -rood wishes "
of the visitors , the lodge was closed , and the brethren adjourned to a supper . TheW . M . performed all the ceremonies well , more especially the Third Degree . After the brethren had done good justice to refreshment , the W . M . proposed the usual loyal and other Masonic toasts , which were duly honoured in good style . He then proposed " The Health of the Initiates , " saying he believed
they would become worthy Masons and a credit to the Craft . He felt great pleasure in having introduced them , and if they persevered in learning the tenets of Freemasonry they would never have reason to regret joining the Craft . Bro . R . Pratti , in reply , said he thanked the brethren for the hearty reception the initiates had received at the hands
of the brethren . He had long hoped to join them , and to night his wishes had been realised . He would give all his assistance to their worthy Institution , and endeavour to become a faithful and true brother . Bro . C Guffanti said that his brother initiate had expressed all he wished lo say , and thanked the brethren for the kindness shown towards him , and would try to prove
himself a good brother and a credit to the lodge . The I . P . M ., Bro . the Rev . J . W . A . Sturdee , said he felt proud in having the gavel in his hand to propose "The Health of the W . M . " To-night the VV . M . had proved himself a good working Mason , and had done all his work well . He had never seen the Three Degrees worked better . He felt sure that during the Worshipful Master's
reign the New Cross Lodge would be prosperous , he having shown such a lively interest by introducing new members , which would add to its strength . The Worshipful Master , in reply , said he was not much of a speech maker . It was his intention during his year of office , and at other times , to do all he could for the New Cross Lodge . His avocation would not permit him to give
the attention he considered necessary to Masonry , but he assured the brethren he would discharge his Masonic duties to the best of his ability , and he trusted to their satisfaction . He thanked the brethren on his right and left for the hearty manner in which his health had been drunk . The Worshipful Master , jn proposing " The Health of the Visitors , " said other lodges had visitors , but in no lodcre
were they welcomed more heartily than at the New Cross Lodge , One and all vied in their endeavours to make them happy . To Bro . W . C . Smith , S . W . 1563 , and the worthy Preceptor of the Covent Garden Lodge of Instruction , he owed much of his Masonic knowledge , and to a great extent accounted for the manner in which he had been able to perform his duties that night . He was pleased
to say that lodge of instruction now met in the building of which he had the honour of being manager . To Bro . R . Mackway he owed much for his kindness with the music . To Bro . Reynolds , S . D . 1614 , ne was indebted in various kind ways . He was a hard working Mason , and there was no doubt the Covent Garden Lodge of Instruction , of which he was the Secretary , benefited much by the lively interest
he took in its success . Bro . J . Lander , W . M . 1022 , they were pleased to see amongst them , also the other visitors . He trusted they had all spent a pleasant evening , and would call upon Bros . Lander , W . C Smith , and G . Reynolds to reply . Bro . J . Lander , W . M . 1022 , thanked the W . M . for the kind manner in which he had proposed the health of the visitors , and the hearty manner in which the brethren had
received that toast . It was indeed a great pleasure to be with them . The working of the W . M . that evening in all three Degrees was good . It showed on his part great perseverance . He wished the W . M . a good and successful year of office .
Bro . W . C . Smith , S . W . 1563 , said it gave him great pleasure to be amongst them . He had had the pleasure of working with their VV . M . for seven years , and now they were more closely associated together , and now met under the roof of the Criterion , of which their VV . M . was the much respected manager , every Thursday evening , he would make it his endeavour to give him all the instruction
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Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
P . M . ' s there were only five or six present , which showed how rapidly we passed away , and what changes time made even in a young lodge . Those who were present would also pass away , but he was sure they could not forget in that lodge that they had had many distinguished Masons with them . The P . M . ' s had done their duty thoroughly and well , and their services had been appreciated . With
regard to the dissemination of Freemasonry , Bro . Hutton had referred to it . The lodge had its members in various parts of the globe . At the Cape and in Sierra Leone were two brethren residing , who were members of the Iodge . It had sent them to America , to India , and to all quarters of the world , where they were not only in connection with this lodge , but doing good service in Freemasonry . Not to go
further with these remarks , which were induced by the varying circumstances of the lodge , he would conclude by proposing " The Health of the VV . M ., " a brother who was very well known , and whose merits required no ornamentation at his hands . The W . M ., in reply , said it was to the brethren ' s kindness he was indebted for getting in the chair , and that he
had made progress in the lodge ; but especially this year was he indebted to the S . W . He would do his utmost to show his appreciation of that kindness , and it would be his endeavour to further the interests of the iodge and increase the happiness and comfort of the brethren . He would press forward to the utmost , and he was sure that the brethren would forgive any defects and imperfections they found in
him" Be to his virtues very kind , And to his faults a little blind . " If he bad their consideration and their hearty co-operation they would have a not unsuccessful year during his time of office . The W . M . next proposed " The Initiate , " of whom he , as his proposer , could speak highly , having known him the whole of his business life , and he was sure he would make
a valuable addition to the lodge . Bro . Bull replied , stating he was happy to join the Order , the ritual of which , as far as he had seen it , had impressed him very much . The W . M , next proposed "The Visitors , " to which Bros . Carr , Stead , Sneath , and Nufer ( New York ) responded . The W . M . then gave "The P . M . ' s . "
Bro . Charles Atkins , P . M ., replying , said he was extremely pleased to come up from Brixham to join the brethren of the Hervey Lodge that evening . His old friend the W . M ., whom hehad the pleasure of proposing and initiating five years ago , was kind enough to ask him to come , and he could not resist the gratification he knew he should feel at being once more among the brethren for
a few hours . It added greatly to his pleasure to think that in the short space of five years Bro . Tayler had attained the chair . He felt a great pleasure in initiating Bro . Tayler , for he knew he was a good man . Bro . Tayler had proved the correctness of all his anticipations . The brethren were all pleased to find that he ( Bro . Atkins ) was getting quite young again . He had passed through the
winter without a cough or a cold or any symptoms of being and asthmatical or a bronchial old man , as he had the fear of being when he was in London . Of course it would be useless to ask them all to go to see him in Devonshire , but he hoped they would one by one go , for he could assure them they would find it another country altogether to London , where they smoke and fog , as opportunity offered he
hoped he should come again and again to London and see how the lodge was prospering , and how well the work was done . He could recollect the time when the work was not done so well as it was now , and the old members would bear him out in that . AU the officers knew their duty , and could do it . He hoped they would continue as they were going on and add lustre to the name of the lodge , John
Hervey , the late Grand Secretary , who was one of the best Masons that ever lived . Bro . Heaton , P . M ., also replied , and said that since the advent of the W . M ., no doubt a great change had taken place in the working of the lodge , and he trusted this would continue , so that visitors would be qleased to come to the lodge , and be satisfied with the work .
Bro . Brockett-Sorrell , P . M ., said the Past Masters would do what they could to further the interests of the lodge . The Past Masters had shown their interest in the lodge that night . Bro . Atkins had acted as J . D ., Bro . Heaton as D . C , and he himself had had the pleasure of performing the installation ceremony . He commended the work of the W . M ., who was a most efficient Mason . He ( Bro .
Brockett-Sorrell ) thought the time had now come when he entitled to a little rest , as he had done the work for two years . Bro . Latreille , P . M . and Secretary , replied , to the toast of "The Treasurer and Secretary . " Bro . Dr . Hogg would do all he could for the lodge , and he ( Bro . Latreille ) would endeavour to perform his duties faithfully and
zealously . He was accused of being strict , but he was strict on account of his love of Masonry , and a desire to keep the John Hervey Lodge right . The other toasts were then given , and the brethren separated , after spending a most enjoyable evening , rendered additionally enjoyable by thc musical efforts of Bro . Wallis , and Messrs . Linley , Berry , and Tournay , under the direction of Bro . W . Henry , J . D .
ST . MARYLEBONE LODGE ( No . 1305 ) . — The installation meeting of this lodge was held at thc Langham Hotel , on Wednesday , the 14 th inst . The chair was occupied by Bro . Henry Hill , W . M ., who was supported by Bros . Middleton W . Halliday , S . W . 5 F . Smith , J . W . ; J . Chaplin , Treas . ; J . L . Baker , P . M ., Sec ; F . Spurgin , S . D . j F . J . Bonham , J . D . ; C . Curtis , D . C . ;
Arnold Birch , Org . ; R . Raymond , I . G . ; , b . G . Foxall , P . G . P ., P . M . ; F . C . Moufiet , P . M . ; J . J . Pope , P . M . ; E . White , P . M . ; and many others . Amongst the visitors were the following : Bros . G . Coop , S . W . 141 ; C Grassi , S . W . 1339 ; H , Gidding , 1624 ; W . Holland , 2030 ; H . Donelly , 749 ; j . Taylor , 1744 ; E . Wilding , J . D . 1541 ; A . Henson , 1706 ; and W . W . Lee , 1 S 97 . The lodge having been opened in due form , the minutes
of the preceding meeting were read and confirmed , after which Bros . S . Whiteley , E . A . P . Whitel y , and J . W . Avery were raised to the Degree of Master Masons . Bro . Middleton Wood Halliday , S . W ., was then presented as W . M . elect , and a Board of Installed Masters having been formed , he vvas duly installed into the chair for the ensuing year . The following officers were appointed and invested by the W . M .: Bros . F . Smith , S . W . ; F . Spurgin , J . W . ; J . Chaplin , Treas . ; J . L . Baker , P . M ., Sec . ; F . J . Bonham ,
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
S . D . ; R . Raymond , J . D . ; Cox , D . C ; Curtis , I . G . ; and Douglas , Stwd . The usual addresses were then delivered by the Installing Master , Bro . Henry Hill , in a very able and impressive manner that was much appreciated by the brethren present . Ballot having been taken for Messrs . W . T . Barnard , W . G . Cotsfordi and G . H . Turner , which resulted unanimously in their favour , they were initiated by the newly-installed W . M . in a manner that augured
well for the working of the lodge during the next year . The report of the Audit Committee was read and adopted , showing a balance to the credit of the Benevolent Fund of nearly £ 220 . A vote of thanks was unanimously passed , and ordered to be entered on the minutes , expressing the sincere thanks of the brethren to Bro . F . C . Moufiet , P . M ., for the very handsome banner presented by him to the lodge , and which was much admired .
All Masonic business having been transacted , the Iodge was closed in due form , and the brethren adjourned to banquet , at the conclusion of which the customary loyal and Masonic toasts were honoured . The first toast— "The Queen and the Craft " —was proposed by the Worshipful Master , who remarked that it was always well received , and the present occasion would be no exception . They hailed with pleasure the return of
Her Alajesty amongst her people , and all would unite in wishing her health and strength to continue among them . The next toast was " H . R . H . the Prince of Wales , M . W . G . M ., " whom , the W . M . observed , was one of the hardest worked men in England , but yet found time to attend to his Masonic duties . Nothing gave his Royal
Highness greater pleasure than to be exerting his influence or giving his time to promote the interests of Freemasonry , and since he had occupied the position of M . W . G . M . the Craft had made rapid strides , having largely increased in numbers , and therefore giving increased support to the Masonic Charities .
In proposing "The Health of the Grand Officers , the Worshipful Master said he was glad they had a Grand Officer present that evening , Bro . Foxall , P . G . P ., whose name he should couple with the toast . It was not necessary for him to dwell upon the great interest taken by the Grand Officers in the Craft , but he should content fiimself with assuring the brethren that they did all in their power to promote its welfare .
Bro . S . G . Foxall , P . G . P ., responded ; but said that , as the hour was very late , he would simply thank them sincerely for the reception given the toast , and for the honour conferred upon him by coupling his name with it . Bro . Henry Hill , I . P . M ., said it was now his pleasing duty to propose " The Health of their Worshipful Master , " and from the successful manner in which he had performed the duties of the various offices , he had no doubt that he
would preside over the lodge in a way that would meet with the approval of its members . They had all known the W . M . for some considerable time , and he was sure he would have a prosperous year of office . Bro . Middleton W . Halliday , W . M ., tendered his hearty thanks for the manner in which his health had been proposed and received , and also for the honour conferred upon him by electing him to the chair of the lodge . No effort
would be wanting on his part to carry out his duties to their satisfaction , and he asked them all to assist him during his year of office by giving him their support , and to combine with him in making his term of office a successful one . He would do his best to promote the welfare of the Iodge and the comfort of the brethren . In submitting the toast of "The Initiates , " the W . M . said that scarcely a meeting passed without some new
members being introduced , and he was pleased to say there were three initiates that evening , all of whom he trusted would become good and true Masons . Bros . W . T . Barnard , W . G . Cotsford , and . G . H . Turner responded , the first-named brother observing that it would be his earnest endeavour to become , as the W . M . had remarked , a good and true Mason . From what he had seen of Freemasonry that night , he was sure that it was an
Order to which he would be proud to belong , for , in the first p lace , it had the Bible las its foundation , and , in the next , it upheld the Queen and Constitution . With such principles as it taught , he was certain that he had not joined an Order he need be ashamed of . " The Visitors " was next proposed by the WM ., who saidthat they were always favoured with a large number of visiting brethren , as the members took great pleasure in
bringing visitors , and he , as W . M . of the lodge , gave them a hearty welcome . Bro . G . Coop , S . W . 141 , replied , and thanked the members of the lodge for the hospitable manner in which the visitors had been received . He had been an inhabitant of Marylebone for many years , but had never before had the pleasure of visiting the St . Marylebone Lodge , which was a thoroughly representative one . He was almost sorry
he had not had the good fortune to have been initiated in that lodge ; but he hoped to have the pleasure of visiting it on many future occasions . Several other brethren responded , thanking the members for the hearty reception accorded them , and testifying to the excellent working and prosperous condition of the lodge . The Worshipful Master then gave" The Past Masters , " from whom he had derived great assistance , and to whom
he tendered his best thanks for the ready help they had afforded him . There was a thoroughly representative number of Past Masters present that night , some of whom he believed were founders . Amongst these was Bro . Moufiet , P . M ., who was always ready and willing to do anything for the good of the lodge . Last , hut not least , there was their I . P . M ., Bro . Henry Hill , whom he wished to heartily compliment upon the very impressive manner in
which he had performed the ceremony of installation . He ( the W . M . ) had now a duty to perform that always devolved upon the new occupant of the chair . It was to present Bro . Henry Hill , I . P . M ., with the jewel that had been voted by the lodge ( manufacturedby Bro . George Kenning ) . It afforded him very great pleasure to make this presentation , for it was in recognition of the able manner in whicii Bro . Hill had carried out the duties , and hc hoped that brother would have health and strength to be with them
for many years to come . Bro . Henry Hill , I . P . M ., said he had to thank the brethren for the very cordial manner in which thc toast of his health had heen proposed and received . He had also to thank them for the handsome jewel presented to him . He had always carried out his duties to the best of his ability , and he was pleased to think he had performed them to the satisfaction of the members . _ He would always treasure the jewel to remind him of his year of office .
Reports Of Masonic Meetings.
Bro . Pope , P . M ., also responded on behalf of the Pas ' Masters , and assured the W . M . and brethren that nothing gave them greater pleasure than to be present and render every assistance in their power . " The Treasurer and Secretary " was next proposed by the W . M ., who said he was sure they would all readily agree with him that there was not a more onerous duty than
that of Treasurer , and they were fortunate in possessing such a brother as Bro . Chaplin to act in that capacity . With regard to the Secretary , the lodge had never had a better Secretary than Bro . Baker , P . M ., to whom their best thanks were due for the zeal and energy with which he performed his duties .
Bros . Chaplin , Treas ., and Baker , Sec , responded , thanking the brethren for the cordiality with which the toast had been received , and assuring them that no effort would be wanting on their part to ensure the satisfactory performance of their respective duties . " The Officers " having been given and duly responded to , the Tyler ' s toast closed the proceedings .
NEW CROSS LODGE ( No . 1559 ) . —The first meeting of this lodge under the newly-elected VV . M ., Bro . G . P . Bertini , took place at the Ship Hotel , Greenwich , on the 9 th inst ., when he was supported by Bros . C . Grassi . S . W . ; F . W . Cash , J . W . ; E . H . Thiellay , P . M ., Treas . P . G . S . B . Middx . ; Ernest E . Smith , P . M ., Sec .: las . D . Graham , S . D . ; H . Wild , J . D . ; f . H . Meyer , I . G . I Wm .
cawley , r . ij . u . U . ; C 1 . Urummant , P . M ., Stwd . ; R . Mackway , acting as Org . ; J . W . Rowe , Tyler ; Rev . J . VV . Sturdee , I . P . M . ; W . Avenell , R . Barrett , H . VV . P . Makeham , J . Neville , John Falkner , H . W . Walden , G . Felix Mounter , James Rowe , J . B . C . Rouard , J . Pegram , R . Pratti , C . Guffanti , and others . Visitors : Bros . W . C . Smith , S . W . 1563 ; T . A . Harding , S 59 ; Edward F .
Green , S ; R . Mackway , 19 S 7 ; G . Reynolds , S . D . 1614 ; J . M . Kiry , Treas . 1622 ; J . Lander , W . M . 1022 ; and others . The lodge was opened in due form , and the minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed . A ballot took place for Messrs . R . Pratti and C Guffanti , and proving unanimous , those gentlemen were informed
of the same . Bro . W . Avenell and R . J . Pegram were passed to the Degree of F . C , and Bro , W . H . Walden was raised to the Degree of M . M . The W . M . initiated Messrs . R . Pratti and C . Guffanti into the mysteries of Freemasonry . The W . M . and Bro . E . H . Meyer proposed two gentlemen for ballot at the next meeting . The W . M . having received the " Heartv -rood wishes "
of the visitors , the lodge was closed , and the brethren adjourned to a supper . TheW . M . performed all the ceremonies well , more especially the Third Degree . After the brethren had done good justice to refreshment , the W . M . proposed the usual loyal and other Masonic toasts , which were duly honoured in good style . He then proposed " The Health of the Initiates , " saying he believed
they would become worthy Masons and a credit to the Craft . He felt great pleasure in having introduced them , and if they persevered in learning the tenets of Freemasonry they would never have reason to regret joining the Craft . Bro . R . Pratti , in reply , said he thanked the brethren for the hearty reception the initiates had received at the hands
of the brethren . He had long hoped to join them , and to night his wishes had been realised . He would give all his assistance to their worthy Institution , and endeavour to become a faithful and true brother . Bro . C Guffanti said that his brother initiate had expressed all he wished lo say , and thanked the brethren for the kindness shown towards him , and would try to prove
himself a good brother and a credit to the lodge . The I . P . M ., Bro . the Rev . J . W . A . Sturdee , said he felt proud in having the gavel in his hand to propose "The Health of the W . M . " To-night the VV . M . had proved himself a good working Mason , and had done all his work well . He had never seen the Three Degrees worked better . He felt sure that during the Worshipful Master's
reign the New Cross Lodge would be prosperous , he having shown such a lively interest by introducing new members , which would add to its strength . The Worshipful Master , in reply , said he was not much of a speech maker . It was his intention during his year of office , and at other times , to do all he could for the New Cross Lodge . His avocation would not permit him to give
the attention he considered necessary to Masonry , but he assured the brethren he would discharge his Masonic duties to the best of his ability , and he trusted to their satisfaction . He thanked the brethren on his right and left for the hearty manner in which his health had been drunk . The Worshipful Master , jn proposing " The Health of the Visitors , " said other lodges had visitors , but in no lodcre
were they welcomed more heartily than at the New Cross Lodge , One and all vied in their endeavours to make them happy . To Bro . W . C . Smith , S . W . 1563 , and the worthy Preceptor of the Covent Garden Lodge of Instruction , he owed much of his Masonic knowledge , and to a great extent accounted for the manner in which he had been able to perform his duties that night . He was pleased
to say that lodge of instruction now met in the building of which he had the honour of being manager . To Bro . R . Mackway he owed much for his kindness with the music . To Bro . Reynolds , S . D . 1614 , ne was indebted in various kind ways . He was a hard working Mason , and there was no doubt the Covent Garden Lodge of Instruction , of which he was the Secretary , benefited much by the lively interest
he took in its success . Bro . J . Lander , W . M . 1022 , they were pleased to see amongst them , also the other visitors . He trusted they had all spent a pleasant evening , and would call upon Bros . Lander , W . C Smith , and G . Reynolds to reply . Bro . J . Lander , W . M . 1022 , thanked the W . M . for the kind manner in which he had proposed the health of the visitors , and the hearty manner in which the brethren had
received that toast . It was indeed a great pleasure to be with them . The working of the W . M . that evening in all three Degrees was good . It showed on his part great perseverance . He wished the W . M . a good and successful year of office .
Bro . W . C . Smith , S . W . 1563 , said it gave him great pleasure to be amongst them . He had had the pleasure of working with their VV . M . for seven years , and now they were more closely associated together , and now met under the roof of the Criterion , of which their VV . M . was the much respected manager , every Thursday evening , he would make it his endeavour to give him all the instruction